What’s New?

A Look Back at 2019

Posted on October 28, 2019

Dear Friend,

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” — Margaret Mead

Margaret Mead’s quote aptly describes our achievements over this past year. ACNJ’s campaign to develop stronger policies and programs for children from birth to age 3 has grown exponentially. Our collective voices helped bring in millions in state and federal funding to improve New Jersey’s child care system and expand high-quality preschool. In addition, parents will now have more time to bond with their newborns, thanks to New Jersey’s strengthened paid family leave program.

Read ACNJ's 2019 Annual Report.

Our work would not be possible without your support, your voice or your advocacy. More people joined with ACNJ than ever before, lending their name and sharing their stories to create a powerful narrative.

As a result of our reputation for independence and a steadfast commitment to children and families, ACNJ was also chosen to lead the statewide non-profit Census 2020 outreach effort this year. Effective advocacy requires accurate data. We have a once-in-a-decade opportunity to ensure that all of New Jersey’s residents, especially our youngest children, will count in the 2020 Census.

Please join me in celebrating this year’s achievements, as we look forward to the work ahead in creating brighter futures for New Jersey’s children.

Sincerely,

Cecilia Zalkind

Jersey Water Works, Task Force Release Report Focused on Eliminating Lead

Posted on October 11, 2019

Yesterday, ACNJ’s Vice President Mary Coogan joined Governor Phil Murphy, Jersey Water Works and the Drinking Water Task Force at a news conference to release a report with a comprehensive set of solutions to eliminate lead in the water within ten years.

The report, Lead in Drinking Water: A Permanent Solution for New Jersey, released by Jersey Water Works, with support from The Fund for New Jersey, and with input from the 30-member Drinking Water Task Force, including ACNJ. Recommendations include creating a campaign aimed at addressing all sources of lead, legislation to require water utility companies to replace lead pipes, coordinate state agencies, and more.

Following the news conference, Governor Murphy announced his state plan to eliminate lead, including a $500 million bond to replace lead service lines.

Read the report.

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